A Tesla Key FOB Battery: What To Know About Its Tech & Replacement

in Model Info and Features
Tesla on a forest road

Source: Pixabay

The Tesla key FOB is a unique device, meant to do everything from opening the vehicle door to starting the car. Inside this key FOB is a battery. If you know nothing about this technology, it might be tricky when performing replacements or caring for the key. What should you know about its tech? How does a replacement work?

If you’re interested in learning more about the key FOB battery, you’ve come to the right place. Read on to learn more about how the FOB works, how to replace the batteries, and everything else necessary to complete the process. The more you know, the easier it will be to keep your key FOB in top shape.

How Does A Tesla Key FOB Work?

Before we discuss technology and battery replacements, it’s helpful to understand how a Tesla key FOB works. It’s a critical component in a vehicle, operating as a method of control. Like other key FOBs, it isn’t too tricky to use.

According to tesla.com, here’s how to work a key FOB for their cars:

  • Locate buttons to push for the item you want to open, such as the front door or the trunk
  • Locate button for starting vehicle
  • Locate button for stopping vehicle and igniting system
  • Press the button

Once you have the proper button located, it’s time to move forward in this vehicle.

The key FOB is one of three options available with this vehicle. The brand also offers a phone key option and key card to provide unique access ability to drivers. However, many love to stick with the classic FOB selection.

Now that you understand how it works, let’s talk about the batteries. How does one replace key FOB batteries?


NOT JUST FOR CAR SHOPPING

The CoPilot app isn’t just for buying a car - our new CoPilot for Owning tool will help you keep track of recalls and gives you advice on which scheduled maintenance tasks are most important.


How To Replace Tesla Key FOB Batteries

Eventually, Tesla key FOBs will run out of battery. When they do, it’s critical to replace them as soon as possible to continue enjoying access to your vehicle. We have everything you need to know about the replacement process for the Tesla FOB battery.

According to teslarati.com, here is the process for replacing the key FOB battery:

  • Invest in the replacement battery, usually a 3V Lithium 2032 Battery
  • Grab a small flathead micro screwdriver
  • Flip the FOB over and remove the battery cover
  • Take out the old battery, replace with the new one
  • Replace the battery cover
  • Reset the battery alert

Once you complete these steps, you have a new battery in your system.

It isn’t complicated to complete the battery replacement process. However, it might take a little work to master the process. Once you replace the battery, it’s helpful to know what to do next.

Do I Have To Reprogram My FOB After Battery Replacement?

When you invest in a vehicle, the key FOB battery goes inside the product and then it is programmed to fit your vehicle. If you replace the battery, it reboots the system and starts anew. Is it necessary to reprogram the buttons after putting a new battery inside the device?

It is usually unnecessary to reprogram the FOB after a battery replacement. Everything should revert to the way it was, ready for use on your vehicle.

There is an exception. Sometimes, a battery replacement also calls for a replacement of internal wiring. If this switch occurs in your key FOB, it might be necessary to reprogram the device to work with your car. A professional will complete this process with ease.

Why Isn’t My Tesla Key FOB Working?

The number one reason why a Tesla key FOB isn’t working is due to a dead battery. If it’s been a while since you changed the power source, take time to replace the battery. If you test it again and it still doesn’t work, there could be a few additional troubles.

According to tesla.com, here are a few additional reasons the key FOB might not be working:

  • The car cannot locate the FOB
  • Your device needs a reboot
  • The vehicle cannot locate the key

You may need to perform a restart to help the vehicle notice the key.

If none of these work, you may need to take your FOB to a professional for a diagnosis. They will help determine what is wrong with this control center for your vehicle.


THE 10 MOST RELIABLE USED SEDANS

If you’re ready to start shopping for a used car and reliability is a priority for you, take a look at our list of the top 10 most reliable used sedans on the market today. 


How To Care For Your Key

The Tesla FOB key is critical if you want to access all features available in your vehicle. If you lose it, it will become much trickier to unlock, lock, and start your car. Not only is it vital to keep your key filled with a powered battery and clean, but it’s also critical to ensure you know where it is at all times.

If you’re interested in advice on ways to keep your key safe, here are a few suggestions:

  • Create a special spot in your home where you can place the FOB
  • Put the key on a lanyard and hang it around your neck
  • Invest in a specialty key holder for the device
  • Keep it in your pocket

Ensure you understand where the items are at all points throughout the day.

It can be expensive to replace a key FOB. Most Tesla options go for nearly $200 on the market, along with losing access to the entrance to the vehicle. There are many reasons to keep an eye on this product.


HOW MANY SPARK PLUGS DOES A DIESEL ENGINE HAVE?

The answer to this question isn’t as  simple as you’d expect. Let’s look explore the difference between gas and diesel engines and explore just how many spark plugs a diesel engine actually has.


Final Thoughts

The Tesla key FOB battery is a unique device. It provides simple access to the vehicle, including locking and unlocking the door. It also looks sleek. With a little practice, you will become an expert at knowing when and how to change the power source in your key FOB. It’s worth it for the access provided through the unique Tesla tool.

We hope this information was helpful! The more you know about the key FOB to your Tesla, the easier it will be to use the product and make necessary replacements in the future. Batteries will continue to advance and shift. As technology advances, we will likely see more and more changes to the classic FOB.



Get a Curated List of the Best Used Cars Near You

The CoPilot car shopping app is the easiest way to buy a car. Tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll search the inventories of every dealership in your area to make you a personalized list of the best car listings in your area.

Only looking for newer models? CoPilot Compare is the search engine for nearly-new cars. Only see cars five years or newer with low mileage — CoPilot Compare is the best way to find off-lease, early trade-in, and CPO cars.

The best part? CoPilot is built using the same technology that dealerships use to buy and sell their inventories, so we have more info on each vehicle than competitors. CoPilot doesn’t work with dealerships, so there are no sponsored posts or other shady practices — just the most info on the best cars. Check out our About Us page to see how CoPilot works.